Clarke Lee Palmer, 70, set sail from Whidbey Island Aug. 2, 2015.

A man larger than life, Clarke touched people wherever he went. Raised at Far-A-Way in Longbranch, Wash., Clarke was well loved by many during his years on Orcas Island and more recently in Palm Springs.

Clarke is survived by his loving sidekick Karla Calhoun; son Tim (Beth); daughter Oona (Jamey); son Blair (Amelia); and daughter Lee. Clarke leaves six special grandchildren: Paige, Lauren, Reagan, Willa, Tierney and little baby Palmer on the way. Clarke is also survived by sister Julie and many lifelong friends and family.

Special thanks to Don, Edna and Anna Martin and Mark Dafoe, for their unwavering love and support in recent months.

It is hard for us to imagine our dear Dad and Clarkie not patrolling the land and waters checking on his loved ones and keeping everyone’s life interesting. Smooth sailing, Dad. We love you!